Valve has announced that its Steam Deck handheld console is getting a sleek new look—a white color option. However, this stylish upgrade comes with a slightly higher price tag.
Starting November 18 at 6 p.m. EST / 3 p.m. PST, the Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White will be available in all regions where the device is currently sold. For gamers in Australia, this marks the console’s first availability in the country, debuting on November 19 at 10 a.m. AEST.
Now, if you’re already a Steam Deck owner, the appeal of the white version might not be strong unless you’re a collector or simply love the color. From a performance standpoint, it’s identical to the existing Steam Deck OLED 1TB model, showcasing the same 1280 x 800 HDR OLED display with a refresh rate of up to 90Hz and providing roughly three to 12 hours of gameplay depending on usage.
The main distinguishing factor is purely cosmetic—the Limited Edition White sports a chic white and gray color scheme. Along with the console, you’ll get a matching white carry case and a white microfiber cloth, adding a touch of uniqueness.
This visual refresh does come at a cost. The classic black 1TB Steam Deck is priced at $649, while the Limited Edition White will set you back $679—a $30 premium for the new aesthetic.
If you’re contemplating a purchase, it might be wise to act fast. The white Steam Deck is being released in limited quantities, with each region receiving a proportionate share of the stock, and purchases are capped at one per Steam account. Valve has confirmed that this is a one-time release, with no plans for additional runs once it sells out.
Valve explained, “This is a limited edition product, and once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.”
For those eager to get their hands on one, buying the Steam Deck is a bit more complex than checking out on Amazon. It’s only available through the Steam store, except in certain Asian areas where it will be distributed via Komodo. Plus, to qualify, your Steam account must have already spent at least $5 before this month. This requirement aims to filter out possible spam and fraudulent accounts, ensuring legitimate access to the device.
Additionally, your account needs to be in “good standing.” Valve has zero tolerance for accounts associated with cheating, and they check using the Valve Anti-Cheat System (VAC). You can verify your account status by opening the Steam app on your computer, selecting “Steam,” then “Settings,” and pressing the “Learn More” button next to “VAC status.”
These restrictions also apply to the standard black Steam Deck, although it’s been available long enough for potential buyers to have met the purchase criteria by now. The good news is that the black version isn’t a limited model, so it’s less of a rush if you’re unable to buy it this time around.